The Politics of Place: A Novel Measurement of Southern Identity

• In Event: Rural Identities and Resentment

Abstract

This project investigates the relationship between Southern identity and Americans’ attitudes about race, social, and economic issues and policies using a reliable and valid survey measurement of Southern identity. Findings from analyses of three national samples of Black and White Americans (two national surveys conducted via YouGov and one national sample conducted via Amerispeaks) suggest that Southern identity is, in fact, associated with distinct and nuanced political beliefs for both Black and White Americans. Specifically, Southern identity is associated with more group-centric and communalistic attitudes for Black and White Americans. Regarding social issues, Southern identity is associated with more conservative, hierarchical, and traditional attitudes across racial groups. With respect to economic policies, Southern identity is associated with communalistic and group-centric attitudes as well. Additionally, results from a survey experiment demonstrate that Black and White Southern voters hold regional biases and preferences for political candidates with Southern ties. These results hint at a challenge to the claim that Southern identity among Black Americans is not as politically relevant as it is for White Americans. This work also speaks to the need for more nuanced approaches to understanding American’s political beliefs across race and place.

Author

• Princess H Williams, Amherst College